How to File a Police Report in Thailand

Filing a Police Report in Thailand

Understanding the difference between a "police report" and a "formal complaint" is crucial in Thailand. This guide explains both processes and when each is appropriate.

Two Types of Police Documentation

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1. Daily Log Entry (บันทึกประจำวัน)

A record that something happened

Does NOT trigger a formal investigation

Used for insurance claims, embassy notification

Can be obtained at any police station

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2. Formal Complaint (แจ้งความ / ร้องทุกข์)

Formally alleges a crime has been committed

TRIGGERS a police investigation

Required if you want criminal prosecution

Must be filed at the station with jurisdiction

When to File Which

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Daily Log Entry

Lost property (for insurance)

Minor incidents for record-keeping

Traffic accidents (for insurance)

Documentation for embassy

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Formal Complaint

Theft, robbery, assault

Fraud or scams

Sexual assault

Any crime you want investigated

How to File a Formal Complaint

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Step 1: Go to the Correct Station

The station with jurisdiction over where the crime occurred

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Step 2: Request to File a Complaint

Ask to "แจ้งความ" (jaeng kwaam)

Request an interpreter if needed

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Step 3: Provide Your Statement

Give a detailed account of what happened

Provide evidence and witness information

The officer will write your statement in Thai

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Step 4: Review and Sign

Have the statement read back to you (translated if needed)

Only sign if you agree with the content

Get a copy of the signed complaint

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Step 5: Obtain Case Number

Get the case number and investigating officer's contact

Follow up within 7-14 days if you haven't heard back

Important Tips

Bring someone who speaks Thai if possible

Take photos of all documents before leaving

Keep your copy of the complaint safe

Tourist Police (1155) can assist and translate

Related Guides

[Criminal Law](/criminal-law)

[Reporting a Crime as a Foreigner](/blog/how-to-report-crime-thailand-foreigner)

[Crime Victim Compensation](/blog/crime-victim-compensation-fund-thailand-claim)